On The Town: Frida Grand Opening

We arrived fashionably late to the grand opening of Frida and it. Was. Packed. A Mariachi band played outside of the store while a group of curious and trés chic fashionistas filtered in and out of the store, some leaving with Frida’s signature unibrow drawn in on their foreheads. If there were enough room to sit and chat, it would have been an unbelievably grand party, but everyone dutifully came in, browsed the Frida-inspired wears and congratulated Rachel, owner of Frida (and The Peacock Room), while purchasing something new.

The décor of Frida was very minimalist and rustic and for good reason; it really lets the clothes speak for themselves. Vintage-looking garment racks that held colorful sweaters, bright shirts and cozy dresses lined the white walls that framed the space. Scattered throughout the store were old chests that displayed apparel and jewelry, a bright red rolling tray adorned with sugar skull change purses, cups and other items you didn’t think you needed until you saw them, and a chair that held colorful bags.

From unique earrings to casual sweater dresses, Frida has something for everyone. The aesthetic in the small boutique is an eclectic collection of modern, bohemian and world influences. It’s the perfect casualwear sister boutique to The Peacock Room, which we visited right after we left Frida, and that’s what’s so great about it. If you’re going shopping with girlfriends and you have completely different styles, The Peacock Room and Frida are the two stores to visit – something(s) are certain to be admired, tried on and happily purchased by all of you.

A fun fact: Frida Kahlo, whom the store is named after, lived in The Park Shelton with Diego Rivera while he created his artwork next door at the DIA. Frida is located in The Park Shelton at 15 E. Kirby St., in Detroit. 

Oh, Shop It: Seriously Fashionable Tech Accessories

 If you are a fashionista who enjoys accessorizing your smart phone, tablet and laptop, you’re in luck! Detroit’s own Anna Sui has created tech accessories exclusively sold at Best Buy in partnership with the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA), which reflect the designer’s current collection.

“We continue to see the intersection of fashion and technology and have partnered with Best Buy to be at the forefront of this innovation,” said Steven Kolb, chief executive officer at the CFDA. “These partnerships have allowed our designers to enter the personal technology space and enabled them to launch their collections nationwide.”

Along with Anna Sui, Nanette Lepore and Isaac Mizrahi have created collections exclusively for Best Buy as well. Phone cases will be available for iPhone 5, 5s, 6 and 6plus, and Samsung Galaxy S5 and will run around $30. Tablet cases are available for the iPad Air and iPad Mini and will range from $35 to $40. Laptop cases are available for 13-inch devices for $40.

All cases are available now, so stop by your nearest Best Buy to style your tech accessories with flair.

Do It: This Weekend’s Fashion, Beauty and Style Events that Are Not To Be Missed

This weekend is chock-full of fun and fashionable things to do, so if you’re itching to hit the town, these events will keep you busy!

Frida’s Grand Opening | Thursday, October 23

Rachel Lutz, beloved owner of The Peacock Room, has opened another store, this one inspired by Frida Kahlo’s free spirit and eclectic style, and she wants to celebrate! From 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., browse the fresh, casual and everyday apparel and accessories while moving your hips to a live Mariachi band. Giveaways and door prizes are available, and if you dress up as Frida Kahlo or Diego Rivera, you will receive 10% off your purchase and a grand prize will go to the best of each.

Frida is located in the Park Shelton at 15 E. Kirby St., in Detroit.

CRAINE&LOVE Trunk Show | Thursday, October 23

Local designer Carol Craine will be on site at Willys Detroit for the CRAINE&LOVE trunk show. From 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., Carol will be available to chat, and she will also share the story of her collection. Fall-inspired drinks are provided by Bailout Productions.

Willys Detroit is located at 441 W Canfield St., in Detroit.

Gypsy Autumn Event | Thursday, October 23

Bohemian beauties, this Gypsy Autumn Event at Saffron is for you! Saffron is celebrating its 4-year anniversary from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., so come shop and congratulate them on a great four years in Royal Oak. Door prizes and Henna by Ava will be happening all evening.

Saffron is located at 308 W. Fourth St., in Royal Oak.

Live.Work.Detroit. | Friday, October 14

Live.Work.Detroit. is back and current college students and aspiring entrepreneurs are invited to attend from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. at St. Andrews Hall. Sponsored by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation and hosted by D:hive, Live.Work.Detroit. is an informative career event where participants are invited to hear about young Detroit professionals and an array of local employers. The event consists of networking opportunities, a keynote presentation by Eric Larson, CEO of Downtown Detroit Partnership, and an Insider Tour with the Detroit Experience Factory. Registration costs $15 and the fee covers dinner, a tour of the city and round trip bus transportation made available from University of Detroit Mercy, Michigan State University, University of Michigan and Wayne State University.

St. Andrews Hall is located at 431 E. Congress St., in Detroit. To register, visit www.eventbrite.com/e/liveworkdetroit-october-24th-2014-tickets-12692669115.

Smythe Show | Thursday, October 23 and Friday, October 24

Smythe is a line of flawlessly tailored jackets, blazers and coats in nostalgic colors, textures and prints and they are at SHE in Bloomfield Hills! If you’re into traditional menswear tailoring details or just in the market for a new blazer, stop by SHE in Bloomfield Hills and browse the collection.

SHE is located at 4076 W Maple Road, in Bloomfield Hills.

Lingerie Love Affair | Friday, October 24 and Saturday October 25

Find the hottest lingerie looks with the help of your own certified fit stylist at the Lingerie Love Affair event at Nordstrom at the Somerset Collection, Twelve Oaks and The Mall at Partridge Creek. When select bras are purchased during the event, $2 will go to the Young Survivors Coalition.

Fall Vintage Masquerade | Saturday, October 25

Celebrate the season at the Fall Vintage Masquerade with Norah’s Vintage Loft, Betty’s Girls Vintage & Vogue, Old Soul Thrift & Vintage, The Natural Market and other vintage collectors and vendors. Starting at noon at the Russell Industrial Center, shop until you drop and enjoy fall-inspired libations crafted by Drinks On Us. A fashion show hosted by Piper Carter will begin at 8 p.m., and immediately following is the masquerade party. Cover is $5 for the day and masks are encouraged.

The Russell Industrial Center is located at 1600 Clay St., Building 3, in Detroit. For more information, contact Norah’s Vintage Loft at 313.656.8774.

Beauty for Breast Cancer | Saturday, October 25

Trish McEvoy consultants will be at Talulah Belle from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. spilling makeup secrets and giving you the holiday-season glow you have been craving. Stroll, sip and shop the day away, with 10% of the proceeds going to The Pink Fund. Free beauty bonuses feature Butter London Nail Lacquer and Trish McEvoy lip color.

Reserve your spot for your own makeup consultation by calling 248.453.5054. Talulah Belle is located at 307 S. Main St., in Rochester.

All Things Detroit III | Sunday, October 26

Small business owners, artists, instructors and other creative artisans unite to network with consumers and to support the local business community. All Things Detroit III will showcase locally made products from more than 60 vendors and businesses. Attendees can browse Detroit-themed artwork, jam to local music and participate in interactive demonstrations. Raffles and giveaways will be happening from 3 p.m. on and admission is $5.

All Things Detroit is located at Eastern Market Corporation in shed three. Eastern Market is located at 2934 Russell St., in Detroit.

Wear It’s At: Gray Eminence

Dreary days, like today, should be fully embraced. Does it look stormy? Yes. Is it cold? Of course it is. But let’s use that for outfit inspiration and go gray! Smoky colored garb is great by itself, but it's even better when paired with other neutral items. The next time you’re getting dressed, pull out all the gray duds stuffed in your closet and put them together! Closet shopping can be the best shopping. But if you’re in the market for something new, check out our favorite grays here.

1. Cartonnier Neoprene Cocoon Coat, $178, Anthropologie, metro Detroit locations.

2. Toy Watch Textured Camouflage Watch, $228, Anthropologie, metro Detroit locations.

3. Vita Fede Mini Titan Bracelet, $225, Intermix, 248.643.1997.

4. Club Monaco Adele Cashmere Scarf, $130, Club Monaco, 248.649.2665.

5. Tory Burch Small Frame Flannel Satchel, $595, Tory Burch, 248.458.1307.

6. Club Monaco Alegra Leather Pant, $695, Club Monaco, 248.649.26665.

7. Fallon Rosewell Crystal Cluster V Necklace, $550, Intermix, 248.643.1997.

Local Designer Series: Lili Camaj of Little Miss Obsessive

Image Courtesy of Irene Mahmud

Lili Camaj of Little Miss Obsessive has grown her brand in a non-conventional way. Exclusively using social media, Lili has managed to bring her line of accessories out to the masses and bloggers. Celebs including Aubrey Anderson (Lily) from Modern Family and Jessica Szohr (Vanessa) from Gossip Girl have been captured sporting Little Miss Obsessive. We chatted with Lili to gain a little insight on how she did it and she let us in on her secret. #thankful

Tell us a little about yourself and how you started Little Miss Obsessive.

I always had a passion for the fashion and beauty industries since I was little. I was a licensed cosmetologist doing hair and makeup; I did a lot of personal shopping and fashion styling and also did a lot of creative directing on photo shoots. On the photo shoots, I would make accessories, and after a while, they really started getting noticed and requests for the accessories would come in. As I started making custom tutus and accessories, the demand for hair accessories grew so I decided to take it to the next level.

How do you reach your customers via social media outlets? What's the secret?! 

Social media is awesome, if you know how to use it the right way. No Facebook, just Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest. For Instagram, hashtags are great, especially for people who are looking for a #headband for their #wedding or a birthday #gift. So, people will search, and your designs pop up in the results and essentially you're helping someone find exactly what they were looking for. Showcasing your product, as well as your personal style, will get people to see what your line is all about, and when people relate, they love that. They feel like they can connect with you instead of just being another "follower." Pinterest is great, too, because girls love pretty things and let's face it, you can never just be on Pinterest for 5 minutes – it always turns into an hour of pinning dream outfits and vacations. Networking is key, just like in any business, and word of mouth. Doing hair and makeup for photo shoots was amazing for networking and marketing and also taking part in fashion shows and charity events. Many of my customers will refer friends and tag them in my comments to show them a piece they might be interested in purchasing. 

What's the best and the most outrageous advice you have received?
The best advice is stay true to your style and it will reflect in every piece you design. The most outrageous was to use cheaper materials. For example, to skip the Swarovski and use cheaper stones, the sparkle just isn't the same and bling lovers know the shine when they see it. If I wouldn't buy or wear it, I wouldn't sell it to my customers. 

Do you have any fashion pet peeves?

Showing too much at once. You can be sexy and fashion forward without exposing it all. 

Right now—and no cheating—what are the contents of your purse? 

Today I rocked my crossbody bag, so not much room for the usual five pounds of things. Cell phone, debit card, license, business card, Heidi D lip gloss and two pieces of Take 5 gum.

If you could have a TV or movie characters wardrobe, whose would it be and why?

Andrea from the Devil Wears Prada, leather Chanel thigh high boots—need I say more?

The Fendi Baguette or Hermes Birkin?

Hands down, Birkin.

Jackie O or Marilyn?

Jackie all the way. 

Image Courtesy of Irene Mahmud

Fabulous, Fantastical FashionSpeak 2014!

It's hard to sit down and compose a blog post about FashionSpeak as there is more to say than you have time to read. First and foremost, we have to thank our sponsors because without them, this day wouldn’t be possible. Thank you to Taubman, Bedrock Real Estate Services, Kenwal, StyleLine (RIP), TDIC, Buddy’s, Sips, US Foods, ZIMs, Emerald City Designs, M1 Gear, Flagstar Bank, B2 Consulting, Styleshack and Ke Event Designs. We also must thank the volunteers – the day played out so smoothly thanks to all of you. And huge thanks to photographers Xiang CCLC and Olga Gamburg for capturing the day for us. And finally, to the DG3 Board, you are the metaphorical heart that beats to keep our programming moving forward. Thank you, thank you, thank you!

Now for the fun stuff – the speakers! The conference covered a wide variety of subjects and each speaker was most informative, warm and encouraging. We have compiled a list of quotes from each presentation that are great tips to utilize when building a business in the fashion world.

Rachel Lutz, Owner of The Peacock Room and Frida

“Think of brand loyalty as a marriage and not a fling.”

“Jump into Detroit retail. People want options, locally made. But be really of the city.”

“Help your customers believe in your brand. Tell them a story. Be authentic.”

“Brand loyalty is a balance of leadership and consistency.”

“If you base your brands on price or discounts, you are ruining yourself.”

Bridget Sullivan and Jeanette Puig-Pey, Automotive Fabric Designer & Global Design Manager, Lear

“Don’t turn down an opportunity with the fear of being unknown.”

“There’s a very concrete connection between fashion and the automation industry.”

Matthew Burnett, Co-Founder & CEO of Makers Row

“Keep your line simple; doing a full out collection at first will kill you.”

“The closer you are to your manufacturer, the more control you have over the production of that product.”

“There are 1.2 million manufacturers in the United States.”

Malina Joseph Gilchrist, Senior Market Editor at T Magazine

“We make things based on what we see – trends, ideas, things that are happening and moving.”

“All editors are looking for more things; but keep your emails short and sweet.”

“Just start with one, simple thing and do it the best you can. Then grow from there.”

“When creating a look book, make the pictures and design clean and simple.”

“If you’re building something, be consistent on all platforms.”

Tracy Reese, Fashion Designer

“I’m not in it for the recognition. I’m in it because I love to make clothes.”

“Give yourself the chance to gain experience and get a salary.”

“Don’t start at the finish line. Start at the beginning, gain experience, learn your customer.”

“The business part is just as important as the creative part. You have to educate yourself.”

Throughout the day, the attendees kept their energy high with coffee at the Keurig Bar, pastries in the morning and pizza and kale salad from Buddy’s for lunch. Fashion dames and gents need to stay nourished as they learn! EVERYONE put their best fashion-foot forward; the style displayed by all of the FashionSpeakista’s made for fantastic people watching all day long.

Once the speakers were finished letting us in on their business secrets, the party began! Everyone enjoyed tantalizing cocktails made with Zim’s vodka and yummy eats from Sips Gastro Pub, and got to network not only with each other but the presenters, too.

Yesterday is a day we won’t soon forget, and writing this blog post still high on FashionSpeak, we could go on and on and on. (But no one likes to read too much online…Add that to your business tips.) Check the tweets, Facebook posts and Instagram photos from our attendees, Board and presenters to get a real feel of just how much everyone enjoyed the day. See you at FashionSpeak 2015. We’ll start planning now…

Do It: This Weekend’s Fashion, Beauty and Style Events that Are Not To Be Missed

This weekend is chock-full of fun and fashionable things to do, so if you’re itching to hit the town, these events will keep you busy!

Thanksgiving Floral Workshop | Wednesday, October 15

If you’re looking to design a Thanksgiving tablescape your guests won’t soon forget, fleurdetroit has a workshop just for you. Each workshop teaches the basic foundation of floral design as well as essential floral care and tips to extend the lifespan of fresh cut floral and this workshop is all about creating an autumnal look everyone will love. The workshop begins at 6:30 p.m. so clear you calendar, grab some friends and enjoy a fun and informational evening so you can put your best Martha Stewart-foot forward when you host Thanksgiving this year.

Workshops are hosted at fleurdetroit’s floral studio located at 1507 S. Old Telegraph Road, in Bloomfield Hills. To reserve your place, call 248.953.3840. Fee is $75 and 10% off additional guest purchases at workshops.

FashionSpeak 2014 | Thursday, October 16

We doubt we need to go in depth about FashionSpeak considering we are sold out, but we are just so excited for it, we have to add it on the list of fashionable things to do this weekend. For those of you who don’t know (or didn’t get your ticket on time), it will be a full day of nationally recognized experts speaking on their knowledge of the fashion industry to give tips and tricks to the FashionSpeakista’s on how to start and grow their fashion business in Michigan. Stay tuned to our Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for updates while the conference is happening.

ELLA Designs Jewelry Trunk Show | Thursday, October 16

ELLA Designs supports the Heinz C. Prechter Bipolar Research Fund at the University of Michigan Depression Center in memory of Michael Guz and they can prove it. The company was created for the purpose of donating 50% of all proceeds to the Prechter Bipolar Research Fund in memory of family member Michael, who struggled with bipolar disorder and passed away at age 17. This Thursday, from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m., stop by Event Bliss and shop for a good cause.

Event Bliss located at 32802 Franklin Rd., in Franklin. For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact Elizabeth or Lauren Guz at 248.865.9620 or email lcguz13@gmail.com.

Key To The Cure at Saks Fifth Avenue | Thursday, October 16

Take a little time out for a charitable initiative to fight women’s cancers and have fun while doing it. From 5:30 to 9 p.m., spend an evening with the women closest to you with beauty, cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, photo booths and tons of entertainment, including comedians and DJs. A patron ticket is $75 and includes $50 gift card to Saks Fifth Avenue, cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and a special gift while the friend ticket is $50 and includes cocktails and hors d’oeuvres. Saks Fifth Avenue has teamed up with Josephine Ford Cancer Institute and Francee and Benson Ford Jr. Breast Care and Wellness Center at Henry Ford Hospital to make this event possible.

For more information and to RSVP call 313.874.6139 or visit www.henryford.com/key. Saks Fifth Avenue is located at 2901 W. Big Beaver Road, in Troy.

Skyline Soiree | Friday, October 17

More than 300 young professionals and philanthropic leaders from across metro Detroit will come together to benefit the American Cancer Society. The Skyline Soiree will be held at 7 p.m. at Coach Insignia and guests will be treated to cocktails, a strolling dinner, silent auction and great entertainment.

Visit www.skylinesoireedetroit.com or call 248.663.3401 for more information. Coach Insignia is located at 100 Renaissance Center, in Detroit.

Ladies Night at Meghan Marion | Friday, October 17

Get your girls together for a ladies night celebration from 6 to 9 p.m. on Friday. Enjoy wine and appetizers while you shop and save 15% on your purchases and an additional 15% off sale items. Sales, wine and food: Tell us why you wouldn’t want to be there?

Meghan Marion is located at 405 S. Main St., in Royal Oak. For more information, call 248.268.4781.

Nordstrom Beauty Trend Event and Beauty Trend Show | Friday, October 17 and Saturday, October 18

This weekend Nordstrom Somerset is hosting its seasonal Beauty Trend Event and Beauty Trend Show. Join Nordstrom Beauty for one-on-one time with savvy beauty experts who will share the latest beauty tips and tricks, while being pampered with a free makeup or skincare consultation. Once you are beautified and relaxed, you will have access to free deluxe samples and exclusive gifts with purchase. Don’t miss out – admission is free for the Beauty Trend Event! Top industry insiders will be on location revealing spring’s best beauty trends during a runway show – and don’t forget to grab a free Nordstrom tote on your way out. The show will start promptly at 8 a.m., so you’re going to have to get going early…but it will be worth it!

Tickets for the Beauty Trend Show are $20. For more information about these events or to purchase tickets to the show, call 248.816.5100. Nordstrom Somerset is located at 2850 W. Big Beaver Road, in Troy.

Michigan Craft Beer Stroll | Saturday, October 18

Enjoy the fall weather at the Michigan Craft Beer Stroll in downtown Royal Oak. Sample Michigan craft beer and food from more than 20 top downtown restaurants including Ale Mary’s, Gusoline Alley, Lockhart’s BBQ, Oak City Grille and Royal Oak Brewery. The festivities begin at 11 a.m. and tickets are $40 at www.eventbrite.com or $50 on the day of the event. A portion of the proceeds will go to benefit the Boys and Girls Club of Oakland and Macomb counties.